Job 17:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 17:3
3 Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who is he that will strike hands with me?
Chapter Context
Job 17 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, obedience, love. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 17:3
3 Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who is he that will strike hands with me?
Analysis
Job challenges God: 'Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who is he that will strike hands with me?' This legal language asks God to provide bail or pledge. Job seeks divine guarantee of justice, recognizing no human can provide security before God's court.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern legal systems required sureties or pledges for accused persons. Job's appeal for God Himself to stand surety anticipates Christ as our guarantee (Hebrews 7:22).
Reflection
- What does it mean to ask God to be your surety?
- How does Christ's role as guarantee fulfill Job's request?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 43:9, 44:32, Psalms 119:122, Proverbs 11:15, Isaiah 38:14, Hebrews 7:22